1. Victimization and Powerlessness:
* Elizabeth Lavenza: Orphaned and adopted by the Frankenstein family, she is constantly subject to the whims and decisions of the men in her life. She is ultimately killed by the creature, highlighting her vulnerability and lack of agency.
* Justine Moritz: A young woman falsely accused of murdering William, she becomes a victim of prejudice and societal injustice. Her innocence is overlooked, and she is executed, emphasizing the lack of power women held in the legal and social systems of the time.
* The Creature's Mother: While not directly named, she is shown as a victim of societal judgment and rejection, leading to her death. This highlights the vulnerability of women who don't conform to societal expectations.
2. Absence of Agency:
* All the women in the novel are largely defined by their relationships to men. Elizabeth is "Frankenstein's betrothed," Justine is a servant, and even the Creature's mother is only mentioned in relation to her son. This reinforces the patriarchal structure of the time, where women's identities were largely determined by their connection to men.
* They lack significant control over their own lives and destinies. Their fates are often determined by men, whether it's through marriage, societal expectations, or even violence.
3. Moral Compass:
* Elizabeth and Justine represent innocence and virtue. They are both victims of the creature's actions, highlighting the destructive consequences of unchecked ambition.
* Their deaths serve as a catalyst for Victor's guilt and remorse. They highlight the moral repercussions of his actions and the importance of considering the consequences of scientific endeavors.
4. Potential for Empowerment:
* While largely powerless in the novel's context, the female characters represent the potential for empathy and compassion. Elizabeth's kindness and Justine's innocence challenge the Creature's violent nature and highlight the importance of humanity and understanding.
It is important to note that while the female characters in *Frankenstein* share these common themes, they are not simply passive victims. They each have their own individual personalities and stories, contributing to the novel's complex exploration of morality, ambition, and the consequences of scientific hubris.